London, UK (Agencies): July 8, 2025 — King Charles III rolled out the red carpet Tuesday for French President Emmanuel Macron in the first European state visit to the United Kingdom since Brexit, underscoring a renewed chapter in Anglo-French relations amid ongoing global challenges.
The French leader, accompanied by First Lady Brigitte Macron, was greeted at RAF Northolt by the Prince and Princess of Wales before being escorted to Windsor Castle. There, King Charles and Queen Camilla hosted a full ceremonial welcome, complete with a carriage procession, honor guard, and the playing of both nations’ anthems.
During a state banquet at the historic royal residence, King Charles praised the enduring partnership between the UK and France, noting that the countries face “a multitude of complex threats” but remain united. “As friends and as allies, we face them together,” he was expected to say in his toast, according to British media.
The visit, Macron’s first to the UK since 2008, is rich in symbolism and substance. The French president is set to lay a wreath at Westminster Abbey, address lawmakers at the Palace of Westminster, and hold extensive talks with Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Their discussions are expected to cover defense cooperation, curbing cross-Channel migration, and continued joint support for Ukraine.
Thursday will see the leaders convene for a UK–France Summit at Downing Street. While major breakthroughs are not anticipated, officials say even modest agreements would signal meaningful progress in mending ties frayed during the post-Brexit years.
With both leaders navigating politically turbulent waters at home, the state visit is also viewed as a diplomatic opportunity to showcase unity, shared history, and a common European vision in a reshaped global landscape.